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    How I got my job as… marketing manager at this UAE-based luxe floral boutique

    Welcome to the Emirates Woman weekly series ‘How I got my job as…’ where we speak to some incredible entrepreneurs, businesswomen and experts based in the UAE and globally to find out about their career paths that led them to where they are now; what their daily routines look like; the advice they’d give to those starting out; and the hurdles they’ve had to overcome.
    This week we chat with Dina Almalik, the marketing manager at Flowers.ae, to understand how the floral boutique produces unique content that reflects the brand’s vision and values.
    From wedding flowers to corporate events, Flowers.ae has a complete range of luxurious bespoke collections to cater to every client’s needs. As the UAE’s leading floral boutique, they offer delivery throughout Dubai and the UAE with flowers imported from Holland and Ecuador with impeccable customer service. With blooms available for any occasion, each arrangement is hand-tied and beautifully wrapped with the finest florals ranging from tulips to hydrangeas.
    Emirates Woman sat down with the brand’s marketing manager to learn about her career path and how she translated her passion for content creation into this role.
    What was your favorite subject at school?
    Growing up, I was always fascinated by the Sciences, specifically Physics and Chemistry, which I excelled at in High School. On the other hand, I have always had a talent for painting, and have pursued that subject in depth throughout college. Colorful, abstract paintings sparked my interest the most. Coincidentally, I now know that my current role requires me to be a logical creative thinker, which explains my passion for both subjects.
    What was your first job?
    After obtaining my Architecture degree in 2015, my first job was at Art Dubai as a Project Manager in the first edition of Dubai Design Week (DXBDW15). My career has then taken a different route as I have discovered my passion for Business and Marketing and moved on to pursue that through acquiring a Master of Science in Marketing from King’s College London.

    What brought you to Dubai?
    My parents moved to Dubai in 1994 to start their own business. As a result, I have been living in Dubai since I was three years old and I am extremely fortunate to have been raised in such a modern and fastest-growing city. Dubai offers a lot of exciting career and business opportunities, drawing diverse talents from across the world, and becoming ‘the city of opportunity’. I consider Dubai to be my home and I can’t see myself living anywhere else.
    What inspired you to enter the flower space and join flowers.ae?
    I have always been in love with flowers and the meaning they carry. I am inspired by the memorable experiences we are able to create for the customer. It is extremely rewarding to be a part of someone’s special moments in life even if it’s in the smallest and least apparent way. It brings me joy to witness people’s reactions when they receive our floral arrangements. Imagine being able to make someone’s day by just delivering a couple of flowers. To have the power to turn someone’s day around and make someone happy! Moreover, I get great joy being a part of a team that spreads the language of love in many forms, from the birth of a child to a wedding proposal. Over the years, Flowers.ae has been trusted by thousands of people to deliver messages of love. With this trust, there is a great responsibility that we take very seriously and is enshrined in our brand and the driving philosophy of the company.
    Talk us through the inspiration of your marketing campaigns.
    The inspiration behind all of our marketing campaigns lies in the opportunity to deliver emotions through our brand and its products. WOW is the number one objective in all of our marketing campaigns. We invest heavily in high-quality content that is a true reflection of our flower arrangements and the special moments they celebrate. In my opinion, the UAE is very diverse and is a nation of different languages with a common love and appreciation of flowers which has been a great contributor to our success. Whatever language you speak, receiving flowers from a friend loved one, admirer, or business partner always invokes a sense of happiness. All of this is reflected in our content and marketing campaigns that aim to evoke the uniqueness of these occasions.
    What are the key elements of your role?
    I am responsible for developing, implementing and executing strategic marketing campaigns for Flowers.ae with a high emphasis on robust brand awareness campaigns that focus on acquiring potential customers and retaining existing ones. Key aspects of my role include leading and managing a creative team, performing market research, and designing creative campaigns which demonstrate products that consumers will love. Our marketing strategies focus on digital and content marketing with story-telling at its core; crafting narratives that elevate the brand. Additionally, I spend some time evaluating emerging market trends and upcoming occasions. I also ensure that our florists act as your go-to gifting consultant. Upset your wife? Send her our 365 rose arrangement, a rose for each day of the year. Did your friend get promoted? How about some sunflowers, representing the joy of the occasion?

    Talk us through your daily routine.
    My day begins at 7am when I first arrive at the shop and start by gathering my thoughts and ideas for the day before my team arrives. The marketing team arrives at 8am. We sit together as a team to go through the data we have gathered and analyse the consumer behavior to specifically tailor our marketing efforts based on our customer’s needs. We then discuss what type of content we would like to focus on for the day including the type of flower arrangements to promote, the occasion to focus on, and the style of content we would like to portray. Afterward, the fun part of our job begins, which is content creation.
    What advice do you have for anyone looking to follow in the same footsteps?
    If there’s one thing I learned from spending my university years obtaining my architecture degree, it’s not to be afraid to change your career path. You may think that life is dictated by your educational degree and your years of experience in one field, however, don’t be afraid to experiment with new things, eventually, you will discover something that you are really passionate about and can excel in. On the other hand, my marketing advice would be to focus on digital and content marketing. Create content that is very relatable to the consumer, marketing is after all a game of relevance. It is equally important to focus on your leadership skills and invest in your team as they are considered to be the pillars of your success. Moreover, do your research and understand your audience. Use data analytics to understand your consumer’s behavior and tailor your marketing efforts accordingly. Be relatable, and relevant and strike an emotional response to build a base of loyal customers.
    What is the best piece of advice you ever received?
    The best piece of advice I have ever received was from the founder of Flowers.ae, Garreth Knowd, who told me to focus on generating marketing content that evokes emotion in the consumer which will make all the difference and help you stand out against competitors in this saturated and complex market. He added, to always be relevant and relatable to the consumer which will result in a long-term relationship built upon trust and loyalty.

    And what is the worst?
    The worst advice I have ever received was to stay away from partnerships and collaborations. I believe choosing the right partnership can serve as a key to the brand’s success and potentially accelerate its growth. Working in collaboration with other luxury brands can significantly impact the trajectory of the brand. The key lies in choosing the right brand to collaborate with, with a deep and meaningful purpose driving this collaboration.
    What has been the biggest challenge you had to overcome?
    One thing is certain, we live in a dynamic and technological era, which means businesses need to be extremely adaptable. To thrive, brands will have to adopt new behaviors to stay relevant and take advantage of all the innovations in Artificial Intelligence by adopting a forward-thinking approach. You can’t run away from emerging technologies, you will have to embrace them and start looking at ways to incorporate them into your brand.
    What are the future plans for Flowers.ae?
    Flowers.ae has completely revolutionised the floral industry by adopting a customer-centric strategy that focuses on creating the best experience for the customer, through offering the finest service. We’re your consultants. We go above and beyond in creating flower arrangements that will make that special occasion extraordinary and unforgettable. As for the future, Flowers.ae will continue to grow, increase its market share and enhance its position in the floral market as the region’s go-to luxury florist. Moreover, we will continue to elevate the customer experience through the personalization of every touchpoint in the journey whilst offering a seamless e-commerce flower delivery service.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied  More

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    Fazza visits this sophisticated Amalfi-inspired restaurant in Dubai

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    3 hours ago

    As one of the most sought-after royal foodies, Sheikh Hamdan gave his seal of approval to another fine-dining Italian haven in Dubai, Ristorante Loren.
    No stranger to Dubai’s foodie scene, His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the emirate’s Crown Prince visited the restaurant this afternoon.
    The brand even shared an image on the official @theclubwestbeach Instagram page, with the caption, “We are honoured by the special visit of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum to @ristorante.loren located at The Club at Palm West Beach.”

    With an immersive dining experience, this new Italian restaurant is located on the rooftop of the popular beach destination, SAN Beach, on West Palm Beach. The sophisticated interiors are inspired by the ‘60s and ‘70s era of the Italian Riviera, to promise the ultimate cityscape.
    From delectable dishes such as freshly made pastas, pizzas and breads, customers can experience laid-back authentic-style dining with dishes crafted to perfection.
    The restaurant offers two dining concepts – an indoor dining area with a front-row view of the open kitchen, and a beachside dining area with panoramic views of Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Marina and Bluewaters Island.

    The open floor plan of the restaurant includes a customised marble bar, a large open kitchen, and a wine cellar that offers some of the finest picks from Italy. Loren Ristorante evokes a luxurious and chic, yet sophisticated atmosphere, emulating the ambience of a refined Italian coastal dining experience.
    Known for his approved list of restaurants, this should be another venue to add to your list.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram & Feature Image: Instagram @theclubwestbeach More

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    In pics: 10 heartfelt Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid moments throughout the years

    Today, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates celebrates 17 years as Ruler of Dubai.
    Since January 4, 2006, Sheikh Mohammed has turned Dubai into a beacon of hope through his profound leadership skills and remarkable feat over the year. He has always been a source of inspiration for many in the UAE and across the globe throughout the years.
    As the Dubai Ruler marks a milestone in his career, we look back on some of His Highness’ special moments over the years.
    Family man at heart
    While Sheikh Mohammed is one of the key figureheads of this nation, he’s also a family man at heart, particularly when it comes to spending time with his grandchildren. His Highness is regularly seen doting on his grandchildren.
    To mark the end of Ramadan, during Eid Al Fitr, this year, the Dubai Ruler was at a family gathering with 23 of his grandchildren in a photo posted by his son, His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Crown Prince of Dubai.

    True people person

    Time and time again the Dubai Ruler has proven he’s very in touch with his people. A perfect example of this was when he surprised a group of students at Expo 2020 Dubai earlier this year.
    In a video shared on Instagram, the group of schoolchildren were lined up posing for a photo, but what they were unaware of was that His Highness was standing right behind them. The footage, shared by Khalifa Saeed on Instagram, showed the children being treated to a royal surprise. His Highness then took the time to have a chat with the students.
    Changing lives

    Being the compassionate individual he is, the Dubai Ruler is always ensuring he helps those who are less fortunate.
    In February 2021, Sheikh Mohammed pledged Dhs8 million to Massar Mundharr and her daughter who was suffering from a degenerative disease and needed urgent treatment. The little girl was diagnosed with type 2 spinal muscle atrophy which leads to the motor neuron nerve cells in the brain which enable the body to speak, walk, breathe, talk and more. Mundar and her husband were told by doctors at Al Jalila Hosptial that His Highness had agreed to cover Laveen’s medical costs.
    When he met his biggest fan

    Four years ago, in January 2017, the Mohammed bin Rashid Government Excellence Award ceremony was held at the Emirates Palace Hotel in Abu Dhabi.
    Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum presented policewoman Halima Al Matroushi the award for Best Administrative Employee. However, chose not to receive the award herself. Instead, she let her mother take her place up on stage.
    Al Matroushi’s mother has always dreamt of meeting Sheikh Mohammed, so when her daughter realised it was a possibility, she gave her the opportunity.
    Advocating young talent
    Sheikh Mohammed has consistently championed young talent in the region.
    In 2020, His Highness sent a heartfelt message to an Emirati student who has graduated from university.
    The Ruler of Dubai first met student Fatima Ahmad Bin Bakhit Al Nuaimi four years ago, posted the sweet message on Twitter.

    قبلة على رأس ابنتي في ٢٠١٦ لأنها حازت المركز الأول على مستوى الدولة في تحدي القراءة .. تخرجت أمس من جامعة نيويورك بأبوظبي بتفوق .. مبروك لابنتي فاطمة النعيمي.. الوطن يُزهر بكم .. الوطن ينمو بالقراءة ..الوطن يعلو بالعلم .. pic.twitter.com/Y52AUgH3EI
    — HH Sheikh Mohammed (@HHShkMohd) May 28, 2020

    “I had laid a kiss on my daughter’s head in 2016 as she ranked first at the state level in the reading challenge,” His Highness said. “Yesterday, my daughter Fatima Al Nuaimi graduated from Abu Dhabi New York University with distinction.
    “Congratulations. The country flourishes with you, thrives in reading and rises with knowledge.”
    Along with the message, Sheikh Mohammed shared two photos – one of their first meeting in 2016 and one of Al Nuaimi’s recent remote graduation.
    Looking to space
    At the start of December 2017, he put the call out for young people who were keen to be the first Emiratis in space.
    “The people of the UAE will break new barriers; nothing can stand in the way of those who believe nothing is impossible,” Sheikh Mohammed wrote on Instagram. “Our ambitious goals are fuelled by dedicated people, who support us until, without hesitation or scepticism, we succeed.”
    His Highness has gone on to spearhead the UAE making a mark in space, in particular with the Emirates Mars Mission where the Hope Probe entered the planet’s orbit in February 2021.
    Royal friends

    Back in 2017, Sheikh Mohammed met with the UK’s Queen Elizabeth II at the Royal Windsor Endurance Race, and from the looks of things, they had a great time together. At the time, the Dubai Media Office said the pair of royals discussed “historic ties, friendship, and cooperation between the UAE and the United Kingdom”.
    A helping hand
    Throughout the years, Sheikh Mohammed has ensured offering humanitarian aid is a big priority for the UAE.
    In 2020, after the catastrophic explosion in Lebanon leaving around 300,000 people homeless and many injured, His Highness ordered 30 tonnes of medicines and medical supplies to be sent immediately on his personal aircraft in response to the devastating blast.

    Looking to the future
    In August 2020, the Ruler of Dubai opened a new medical research centre has opened in Dubai that not only studies COVID-19, but also other communicable diseases. The Dhs300 million centre aims to study an array of diseases including diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease, obesity and more.

    .@HHShkMohd: We have launched the Mohammed Bin Rashid Centre for Medical Research at a total value of AED 300 million. The Centre will focus on research on communicable diseases in the country, in addition to research on COVID-19. pic.twitter.com/vh3VfPUWiZ
    — Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) August 11, 2020

    Praising the women of the nation
    Honouring women across the UAE, the Ruler of Dubai issued a message in August 2020.
    Posting a video to his 10.3 million Twitter followers which paid tribute to Emirati women, he expressed his pride towards every female from the UAE.
    “To the Emirati women, you worked hard, you accomplished and prove to the world who you are,” he said. “[We are] proud of you, proud of your partnership in the development process, we raise our heads with your achievements. Every year you are better and more beautiful.”

    إلى المرأة الإماراتية في يومها.. اجتهدتِ.. فأنجزتِ.. وأثبتِ للعالم من أنتِ.. فخورون بك.. معتزون بشراكتك في مسيرة التنمية…. نرفع رؤوسنا بإنجازاتك.. كل عام وأنت أفضل وأجمل.. pic.twitter.com/mVxW9nzZfI
    — HH Sheikh Mohammed (@HHShkMohd) August 27, 2020
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More

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    10 of the most luxurious city hotels to stay in Dubai

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    2 hours ago

    Want to be close to Dubai’s most delectable restaurants and experience the finest of everything the emirate has to offer? We’re here to help.
    Known for its unending list of sophisticated activities such as afternoon teas, pool days, and fine-dining meals, there’s enough and more to enjoy with your loved ones as long as you stay at the right property.
    So, whether you’re here after the Qatar World Cup or simply looking to take a city break, Emirates Woman has created a guide with all the hotels to book on your next visit.
    25 Hours

    If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind property, this hotel is definitely one to stay at. With a nomadic touch, each element is carefully curated for guests to take a trip around the world. From co-working spaces to a creative studio designed for visitors to record their own podcasts this hotel is filled with a host of eclectic activities to ensure visitors are occupied all day long. With unrivalled views of the Museum of the Future from the pool, this hotel stay is all set to be a memorable one for all those who visit. Alongside the stay, in-house guests can even rent bikes or a Mini Cooper to experience Dubai without any added hassle.
    To make a booking visit 25hours-hotels.com
    Me Dubai

    Designed by Zaha Hadid, this architectural icon is known for its contemporary feel and a host of luxurious experiences. Home to an array of sophisticated fine-dining havens such as Roka, Basko and The Maine, this property is part of The Opus by Omniyat and is situated in a prime location next to the Burj Khalifa. If you’re looking to unwind, the hotel offers a premium rooftop pool with unending views of Dubai with the spa being the perfect place to relax.
    To make a booking visit melia.com
    Address Sky Views

    Another refined property to add to your list is Address Sky Views. By taking sightseeing to new heights, this property is also offering a new view of Dubai with its Sky View Observatory which gives visitors an unforgettable experience. There’s also fine-dining spots right on the property such as Amelia Restaurant and Lounge, CÉ LA VI, Lucia’s and more. To take a break, guests can enjoy sun dips at the pool with an Insta-worthy view of Dubai’s skyline.
    To make a booking visit addresshotels.com
    Anantara Downtown

    Situated in the heart of Downtown, this luxe property is an elegant sanctuary with pristine views of Dubai’s skyline. With 252 luxurious rooms and suites, the hotel has direct views of Burj Khalifa. Situated close to Dubai Mall, visitors have access to the Dubai fountain which is one of the leading attractions in the emirate. With exquisite gourmet experience and tranquil moments at this Thai-inspired hotel, guests can stay in style.
    To make a booking visit Anantara.com
    Palace Downtown

    This palatial oasis is a harmonious blend of Middle Eastern heritage and contemporary Dubai. The Palace is a striking symbol of modernity at the heart of a traditional Arabian village, with a backdrop of two iconic structures, the Dubai Fountain and the world’s tallest building, Burj Khalifa. Visitors can soak up the sun at the palm-fringed pool and opt for a plush chaise lounge or seek refuge from the heat in a traditional Arabian tent. With expert therapists on-hand to ensure guests reach the utmost relaxation and rejuvenation at the property’s house spa.
    To make a booking visit addresshotels.com
    Waldorf Astoria, DIFC

    For an urban luxury retreat, this property elegantly brings the heritage of New York to Dubai. If you’re looking for a city hotel, this is the perfect option with exceptional service and state-of-the-art facilities. With fine-dining restaurants such as Bull & Bear, and The Artisan, this hotel lies at the epitome of luxury in the heart of Dubai. Situated close to all the world-class activities in Dubai such as the Museum of the Future and Dubai Mall, there’s plenty to do within the vicinity.
    To make a booking visit hilton.com
    SLS Dubai & Residences

    Designed by Philippe Starck, this luxe property is created with fine attention to detail. With breathtaking views from the 75-story rooftop deck, this hotel offers unobstructed views of the world’s tallest building, including Dubai Creek. Brimming with character, this coveted address compromises of 254 expertly designed hotel rooms boasting spacious terraces and balconies. For an exquisite dining experience, there are a host of restaurants including the award-winning Michelin Bib Gourmand restaurant Filia, Carna By Dario Cecchini, and S Bar for an eclectic bar experience.
    To make a booking visit sbe.com
    Hyde Hotel

    For a relaxed state of mind, this hideaway destination presents a new kind of bespoke hospitality with an authentic experience. With over 276 spacious rooms and suites, guests have access to private balconies and are equipped with in-room luxurious amenities. When it comes to dining, the hotel offers three incredible concepts including the Mediterranean restaurant Cleo, a Japanese haven Katsuya and an exclusive speakeasy experience with hand-crafted burgers at Hudson Tavern.
    To make a booking visit sbe.com
    Mandarin Oriental, Jumeira

    With a pristine oceanfront setting, this urban resort has access to a host of alfresco facilities while still being nearby Downtown Dubai. For the ultimate pool day, this unforgettable getaway offers VIP cabanas and beach beds overlooking panoramic views of the emirate’s skyline. Now home to an exclusive pop-up concept store, K.I.N.D by M.O, in-house guests and visitors can shop at this sustainable shop that cares about our planet and gives back. For the ultimate wellness escape, guests have access to spa facilities that include both couple massages and other rejuvenating hammam treatments and massages.
    To make a booking visit mandarinoreiental.com
    The Ritz-Carlton, DIFC

    Residing at one of the most happening places in Dubai, this expansive property is surrounded by restaurants, nightlife, and a host of attractions. With five-star amenities on board, this hotel is tastefully designed for the ultimate staycation. For a chic botanical experience, Flair 5 ensures an unforgettable experience as the DJ spins a chilled soundtrack each evening. Taking it back a notch to the 1920s the European café, Café Belge serves a series of innovative dishes with fresh seafood and Belgian dishes.
    To make a booking visit ritzcarlton.com
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram & Feature Image: Instagram @medubaihotel More

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    The best desert cafés in the UAE to visit this winter

    Lifestyle

    by Team Emirates Woman
    1 day ago

    At long last, the best weather of the year has arrived in the UAE.
    Long gone are humid days and nights paired with the sweltering heat and the cooler temperatures and outdoor weather is here to stay for the foreseeable future.
    With that comes the return of the UAE’s beloved desert cafés and concepts.
    To keep you in the know here’s some of the best desert cafés to visit in the UAE this winter.
    NOT a SPACE

    This one-of-a-kind destination is curated with a series of activations in one venue. With the beautiful sunrise and sunset views, this winter experience is designed to bring friends and family together in the company of Sharjah’s Al Faya desert. With a creative set-up and mountainous backdrops, this open-air experience also conducts several activations to celebrate different occasions in an open space. From a ladies parlour to a men’s barber, there are a host of experiences to savour on your visit.
    For more information visit notaspace.ae
    One Degree Cafe

    With a quirky bohemian charm, One Degree Café is the latest off-the-grid pop-up for guests to retreat amid the dreamy desert sunsets. Designed with a Bedouin-style camp and as a pop-up experience, guests can enjoy all the dune views in the middle of the desert. Made for the perfect escape, this outdoor venue offers a plethora of delicious dishes and beverages from Spanish lattes to desserts such as tiramisu. The mains include signature dishes such as the classic hot dog and the wagyu burger, with many more options on the menu. Located in Musherief, Ajman, this desert pop-up is situated 45 minutes away from Downtown Dubai. Visitors can approach the venues by following the map here.
    For more information visit onedegree.ae. 
    Link by Mara

    With international fusion street food and a scintillating majlis-style seating area with fairy lights, guests can lay back with the socially distanced seating arrangements for utmost safety. With a plethora of mouthwatering desserts and must-have beverages, this spot has a private bonfire option in an intimate setting to enjoy with all your loved ones.
    My Space

    Brand new to the desert concept scene, My Space Cafe delivers an exceptional experience in Nazwa, Sharjah. The concept plays host to a simple yet delectable menu comprising of burgers and pasta dishes, as well as coffee and soft drinks and sweet treats. Located in the Sharjhah desert, My Space Cafe is open daily from 3pm to 1am.
    BBQ Station

    Located in the Sharjah desert in the area of Al Rahmaniya, the newest desert concept to enter the scene is BBQ Station. Complete with tipi-style seating areas and a diverse menu, it’s the perfect winter spot to watch the sunset and nightfall over the desert.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More

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    Where to purchase your Christmas tree in Dubai

    Lifestyle

    by Olivia Morris
    5 hours ago

    The most wonderful time of the year is fast approaching (this weekend…).
    With that, now is the time to start thinking about decorations and the most important of them all… your tree.
    Luckily, there’s plenty of places in the UAE where you can buy the perfect tree to celebrate the festive season with your loved ones.
    Real Trees
    Ferns N Petals

    If you’re looking to decorate a real Christmas tree before Santa’s arrival Ferns N Petals has the ideal option – a five-foot tree coming complete with decorations. Priced at Dhs999, this option just made Christmas time a whole lot easier.
    To purchase visit fnp.ae
    Bloombox

    Grown in Billund Denmark, this Danish Nordman tree from Bloombox is approximately six to seven feet and priced at Dhs740.
    To purchase visit bloombox.ae
    ACE Hardware

    One of the most affordable options for a real Christmas tree is from Ace Hardware. Currently, the UAE-based store has ‘Fraser Fir Fresh’ Christmas trees available with prices starting at Dhs399.
    To purchase visit aceuae.com
    Kibsons

    The Nordmann Fir Christmas Trees are sourced from sustainable farms in Denmark. While being pet-friendly this 5ft tree has a classic shape with dark green glossy needles making it much more resilient to heat while giving off a fresh, clean, citrus smell too and is priced at Dhs245.
    Pre-order on kibsons.com
    Fake/Faux Trees
    Crate & Barrel ME

    Want a real tree but don’t want the hassle of the upkeep? This artificial tree from Crate & Barrel offers some of the most real-looking trees. With this 6ft Abies Nordmann Deluxe Xmas Tree you won’t be able to tell the difference.
    Bloomingdale’s

    This artificial Christmas tree comes with exotic branches and luxe LED lights for the ultimate seasonal décor and is priced at Dhs2,200. All the ornaments to complement the tree can be availed at this popular e-commerce platform too.
    To purchase visit bloomingdales.ae
    Irony Home

    Looking to celebrate Christmas in style and go all out? Well, Irony Home should be your go-to place for all things festive in Dubai. Priced at Dhs10,450, this 9.5ft pre-lit white tree with 1250 LED lights will make for a truly luxe Christmas.
    To purchase visit ironyhome.com. 
    West Elm

    Designed for a realistic feel, this simple tree can be spruced by adding your favourite lights and pieces to ring in the festive season. Priced at Dhs2,650, the faux unlit tree is 9ft and is generously created with all its branches.
    To purchase visit westelm.ae
    Dragon Mart

    If you’re on more of a budget, opt for this artificial Christmas tree from Dragon Mart. Priced at Dhs135, this 6ft Christmas tree adds to the vibrancy in any home with its clever design.
    To purchase visit dragonmart.ae
    Home Centre

    This faux Christmas tree from Home Centre is decorated with berries and cones to ensure a classic finish to be reused every year. Priced at Dhs499, this tree is 6ft in height.
    Available for purchase on homecentre.com
    Home Box

    This Alaska Christmas Pine Hook Tree is designed for easy maintenance and utmost convenience to add to the festive season in any home. Made with good durability, it’s priced at Dhs299.
    To purchase visit homeboxstores.com
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied  More

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    Sheikh Mohammed aims for Dubai to be ’20-minute city’ by 2040

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    1 hour ago

    Dubai is never short of ambitious plans and the next masterplan will transform the city with easy access to different destinations.
    As per the latest announcement by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, a new 2040 Urban Master Plan is in the works to develop the emirate into a ’20-minute city’.
    The plan will focus on allowing residents to access 80 percent of their daily activities and destinations within 20 minutes on foot or by other renewable sources of transportation as per its second phase.
    Without limiting to transport, this masterplan will focus on other sustainable sources including government funding for vertical farming, with 60 percent of Dubai’s area will be set out to be natural reserves.

    To delve into further details, Sheikh Mohammed said, “Today, we have a clear vision for the development of Dubai’s urban infrastructure and housing sector until 2040.”
    For the housing sector, the plan has highlighted further developments in Dubai South, Dubai World Central airport, Silicon Oasis, and other residential areas next to the south of Dubai International Airport.
    A plan will further be developed to enhance and utilise urban space including spaces underneath bridges, enhancing the beauty of urban areas, reducing carbon footprint and enhancing the overall landscape strategy in the emirate.
    The Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, approved by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum in March 2021, aims to make Dubai the world’s best city for living.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram & Feature Image: Instagram @hhshkmhd More

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    In pics: The UAE has rewritten history with its first mission to the moon

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    46 mins ago

    The UAE launched the Arab world’s first mission to the moon this weekend from Cape Canaveral, Florida.
    This highly anticipated moment for the country is one for the books, marking the start of the country’s long-term lunar exploration programme.
    The Rashid Rover is now on a journey of up to 140 days, with a landing window on the surface of the Moon in April 2023. To witness this remarkable occasion, Sheikh Mohammed along with other important members graced the MBRSC Mission Control Centre for the live launch.
    His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai praised the UAE for launching the Arab world’s first mission to the moon and expressed his pride on Instagram in a video. The team witnessed a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket take off to deliver the Rashid rover into space.
    In the post, he said, “The United Arab Emirates launched the explorer Rashid today with the aim of landing on the moon. It is the fourth globally and the first Arab to land on the moon in case the mission is successful.”

    In a Twitter post, he later shared images of the mission and said, “Reaching the moon means reaching an exceptional station in the ambitious march of a country and a people whose ambitions have no ceiling.”
    “Explorer Rashid is part of an ambitious space programme for the UAE… that started with Mars… passing through the moon… to Venus… our goal is to transfer knowledge, develop our capabilities, and add a scientific footprint in human history,”
    Swipe through the gallery to see the mission launch.

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    Images: Twitter @hhshkmohd More